Manchester United’s resurgence under Ruben Amorim continues, with the club climbing the Premier League table after winning five of their last seven matches. Following their thrilling 2-1 victory over Liverpool, United now look to extend their winning streak to four when they face Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

However, Amorim could soon face a setback as Bryan Mbeumo, one of United’s standout summer signings, is expected to miss several key fixtures due to international duty.

Mbeumo Set for AFCON Absence

Mbeumo, who joined United from Brentford in a £65 million deal, has been a revelation, scoring four league goals and forming an exciting partnership in attack. But with Cameroon set to participate in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) later this year, the forward is likely to miss a string of important matches.

Cameroon’s group-stage games run from December 24 to December 31, meaning Mbeumo will miss at least United’s clashes against Newcastle and Wolves. Should his national team progress deep into the tournament, he could be unavailable for up to six games, including fixtures against Leeds United, Burnley, and a potential Manchester derby on January 17, as well as an FA Cup third-round tie earlier that month.

The AFCON final is scheduled for January 18, with the third-place match set for the day before, which could delay his return further if Cameroon reach the latter stages.

Berbatov Sends Message to Sesko

Meanwhile, new striker Benjamin Sesko has struggled to find his rhythm since his £74 million move from RB Leipzig, scoring only two goals so far. Former United forward Dimitar Berbatov has offered some blunt but motivational advice.

“Be confident in yourself. Be arrogant in a way that you demand the ball,” Berbatov said on the Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel.

“When you make a run and don’t get the ball, say it—show that you want it. Sometimes players need to be a little more aggressive, emotional even. Shout, swear—whatever it takes to make your teammates see you.”

Berbatov added that self-belief and assertiveness are key qualities every striker must develop to succeed at Old Trafford.

Rashford Warned Over Attitude

Elsewhere, Marcus Rashford, currently on loan at Barcelona after a brief spell with Aston Villa, has been warned about his mentality by United legend Bryan Robson.

Robson praised Rashford’s ability but questioned his focus and attitude if he hopes to return to Old Trafford.

“Marcus is a great talent, but his attitude has to change if he comes back to United,” Robson told Grosvenor Casinos.
“He’ll improve at Barcelona, sure, but I can’t understand why people say he can’t enjoy his football at Manchester United. That’s crazy to me.”

Rashford has been in fine form for Barcelona, featuring regularly and showing glimpses of his best, but his long-term future at United remains uncertain.

With United finally finding momentum under Amorim, the coming months — and how the manager navigates Mbeumo’s absence — could define whether their revival continues or falters.